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CCM is the legendary hockey brand fueled by endless pursuit of performance. For over a century, CCM has been there for players from the first time they step on ice to the pinnacle of their careers. Today, CCM continues to draw inspiration from its rich history by offering the innovation and performance that will help write the next chapter in the history of the game.

Ultra Tacks Sticks

The brand new Ultra Tacks is the lightest, best balanced, and most durable stick we have ever created. The new Ultra Attack Frame blade is incredibly light without sacrificing torsional or bending stiffness, so you have a lightweight product with amazing precision and accuracy. The innovative Bumper Technology reinforces the corners of the shaft for outstanding durability and consistency.

CCM Ultra Attack Frame

The ULTRA ATTACK FRAME is the lightest blade we have ever made but still provides very high levels of both torsional and bending stiffness. The result is an incredibly light and well balanced product with more accuracy, better precision, and amazing consistency.

Designed for state-of-the-art protection, the CCM Ultra TACKS family redefines the standards by adding the innovative D3O® foam technology to its line. Engineered to react to fluctuating intensities, the round-breaking smart foam will keep its soft consistency to absorb low impacts while instant hardening at higher intensity impacts to protect against big hits.

What is D3O? D3O is an extremely clever, globally unique technology that is based on the innovation of capturing the benefits of non-Newtonian shear thickening material in polymers that can then be engineered for real world impact protection solutions. These enhanced properties offer a number of different performance benefits depending on the base polymer used and the intended application.

How D3O works? D3O materials in their raw state flow freely when moved slowly, but on shock, lock together to absorb and disperse energy, before instantly returning to their flexible state. This reaction is counter intuitive. The greater the force of the impact, the more the molecules lock together and the greater the protection.

There’s something very important that has been overlooked recently in virtually every facet of sporting culture; helmets alone don’t prevent concussions.

That can be a bit unnerving to read and think about because if the helmet you’re wearing can’t prevent you or your child from getting a concussion, how can you be at ease? Don’t worry, the helmets on the market today are the most technologically advanced helmets ever made and offer protection from a wider variety of injuries than ever before. The point that needs to be considered is that the helmet alone won’t prevent from concussive impacts.

Plenty of research has been done in this field and a great deal of it paints the picture that all the bells and whistles in the world won’t limit the impact and results of high speed collisions. Helmet’s like the Bauer RE-AKT and CCM Resistance have added groundbreaking features that help keep the head protected from both direct and rotational impacts experienced during a hockey game. This was a big step forward in both design and safety as limiting the effect of an impact against a player’s head.

So what does this all mean? Does it mean that you’re no safer with a mop bucket on your head versus a state of the art helmet like the IMS 11.0? Of course not. But simply picking the most expensive helmet you can find and expecting your problems to be solved is far from the solution as well.

When it comes to buying a new helmet, comfort and fit are just as important as the protective qualities of the helmet. I have a handful of helmets in my locker and they all offer a different fit. There is one that I don’t ever wear because it doesn’t provide a snug, safe fit that will keep me protected. The helmet in question is a CCM V08. It’s a phenomenal helmet that is wildly popular at the NHL level that simply doesn’t fit my head. It looks great and I was incredibly excited when I got it. And then I found out it wasn’t going to fit and I’ve never worn it on the ice.

Meanwhile, my Bauer IMS 9.0 is the most comfortable helmet I’ve ever owned. It sits a little higher on my head than other helmets, but the combination of HD foam, Poron XD foam and other protective elements provides a great fit that I know provides adequate protection.

CCM Resistance Hockey Helmet

Obviously none of that means that if I was to hit my head on the ice the wrong way I wouldn’t be concussed, because the most likely result of that would indeed be a concussion. The key is that I made sure to try on a number of different sizes of helmets with a Great Skate sales representative before making a decision. I tried on different makes and models of helmets before settling on the one that had the best overall fit and, therefore, offered the most overall protection.

After making my purchase I’ve made sure that all the hardware is up to par and that the helmet is stored properly. This ensures it dries properly after games and the padding will stay intact. BY making sure the hardware is taken care of means that I won’t lose a screw halfway through a game. Proper maintenance and care for your helmet is just as important as finding the right helmet with the right fit. If padding is falling out of your helmet due to poor care, it’s time to reconsider how you store and take care of your equipment. Furthermore, if padding is falling out of your helmet, it’s probably time to get a new one.

Helmet Protection

It can be worrisome to hear that as different and protective a helmets can be, that they all can’t prevent against concussions. New helmets are able to lessen many impacts – and in turn help to reduce concussive impacts – but many times concussions aren’t avoidable. It’s important to do all the necessary research when you’re planning to buy a new helmet. Know your pricepoint, know the style you want and then make sure to find the model that fits you best.

Take some time to fully evaluate the helmet you wear. Maybe you’ll find that the fit isn’t idea or that some of the interior padding has deteriorated. If that’s the case, take the time to research a replacement before heading to Great Skate for a new lid.

I’ve always been slightly confused by Bauer as they release new editions of their wildly popular gear and their newest stick line is no exception. The new Bauer Vapor 1X stick represents the manufacturer’s newest release in what is likely their most popular line of equipment.

While details on the 1X are slim, it will come with a number of new features that includes an improvement on the AERO SENSE blade core that helped to define the APX and APX2 sticks. The Pure Shot blade profile remains for not only the 1X stick but also the X900, X800 right down to the X600 price point model.

Bauer is also introducing a new taper system for the X line of Vapor sticks. Called QRT Taper technology, the new feature has vague details online but it is expected to create a lower, more responsive kick point than ever before. Popular features like the monocomp construction and eLast technology remain vital parts of the design process as Bauer continues to strive for a steady balance of performance and durability in the stick line.

Of the new features in the 1X stick, the QRT Taper technology is one of the many (along with the AERO SENSE II blade core) that can be found in every model in the line, not just the highest model. While the overall weight and performance of the 1X – and the X900 to a lesser extent – will be unparalleled, a wider range of players will have the opportunity to benefit from the new breakthroughs Bauer has made in stick design.

This new ideal of including more features in lower model sticks, not only allows manufacturers to introduce their breakthroughs across a wider demographic, but more players are able to use them. Thus, the word of mouth on the impressive returns players are getting from different pieces of equipment even if they’ve never made a big purchase for something like the 1X.

Bauer Vapor 1x

Bauer also shifted gears with the graphics package on the 1X stick. A white and silver base dominate the look with touches of black trim worked in strategically. It gives off a sleek feel more so than the darker APX models which used far more charcoal grey and black and less white and silver in their designs. As someone who appreciates the look of a lighter graphics package, I have no complaints about the new look of the 1X stick. For those players who preferred the previous models, the X900 and lower models all sport the very familiar Vapor design features that have grown popular in recent years.

Bauer vapor 1X Hockey Stick

More details will come available soon as the Vapor 1X stick launch date draws closer. Stay tuned for more information on the 1X and the rest of the Vapor stick line and be sure to stop by Great Skate to demo the new stick before you buy it.

The standard of excellence in stick design and innovation has been Bauer’s exclusive territory for some time. While other manufacturers have established a strong foothold in the market, Bauer’s line often signifies a step forward in terms of innovation.

The Supreme has always been tailor made for players with powerful shots and the new Supreme MX3 carries on that tradition. Whether you’re looking to unleash heavy slapshots or strong one-timers, this is the perfect stick.

One of the newest features on the MX3 is the Power Sense 2 blade. This combines a host of technological features into an all-new blade that promotes feel without compromising durability. The blade is developed by integrating SENSE layer materials with Bauer’s signature TeXtreme carbon wrap. This combination allows for Bauer to trim weight from the blade profile while maintaining normal balance and a soft feel. The new construction allows Bauer to capture the best of both worlds – feel and durability – in the blade. This feature can be found throughout Bauer’s line as the APX2 and Nexus 8000 sticks will also boast the new blade construction.

Bauer has also managed to institute a brand new durability feature throughout the build of the stick. The eLAST resin system keeps the stick from losing its pop over time. This addresses a number of pitfalls as it pertains to the breakdown of composite sticks. First, it keeps the stick from gaining flex after each skate. Especially for powerful shooters, having a stick go from a 110 flex rating to an 85 over a matter of weeks or months (depending on use) can have an enormous effect on your play. BY reducing this breakdown, Bauer is ensuring their sticks will not only stay in use longer but it ensures your performance won’t suffer as a result.

Bauer MX3 Sticks

The second benefit of the eLAST resin is the reduction of micro-fractures. As the name indicates, these small cracks in the carbon can spread and grow into larger cracks and eventually cost you a stick. By working to reduce that from developing, Bauer is buying a bit more time between stick purchases.

This is an impressive addition from Bauer as it’s rare to see any sort of durability addition advertised with such vigor. While all companies are working to keep their sticks on the ice longer, the introduction of eLAST may represent the most impressive attempt yet.

Bauer’s Supreme MX3 stick is a great step forward for Bauer’s stick line and perhaps stick design as a whole. Any time a quality improvement is made in the name of durability, the stick will be worth purchasing.

Don’t miss the opportunity to save big on CCM gear while also coming away with some free swag while you’re at it.

Saturday marks the CCM Pre-Season sale at Great Skate featuring 15% off all CCM gear. Early arrivers will get their choice of some excellent free swag like hats, t-shits, wristbands and lanyards. Five lucky people will also win a pair of tickets to this week’s CCM All-American Prospects Game at First Niagara Center.

Tomorrow’s sale will feature two of the most impressive skates on the market today – the RBZ and the brand new Tacks. Players will also save big on products like the CCM RBZ Superfast stick, the brand new and the more accurate Tacks twig as well. The brand new SuperFast stick will be on sale as well, which will provide an excellent opportunity to get a brand new product at a phenomenal price. (Not valid on MAP items.) See more information on this sale please click here.

The CCM RBZ SuperFast sticks feature CCM’s awesome speed channels that were once again redesigned for the newest stick. While the Stage 2’s Freak Channels added an impressive spring to shots and passes, the SuperFast has improved the performance of its blade 50% over the Stage 2. That is a considerable improvement considering the overarching popularity of the Stage 2.

A return to the Tacks line has allowed CCM to diversify their offering in skates and sticks alike. The Tacks skate and stick both utilize a feature called the Attack Frame. While it differs greatly between the two products, the feature sets them apart from the other gear. The Tacks stick is stiffened throughout to offer a more responsive and accurate performance as the blade has been strengthened to reduce twisting and torsion during shooting. Similarly, the Attack Frame on the Tacks skate provides a stiffer, more responsive boot to add explosiveness for all skaters. The stiffer frame allows for a better first step, allowing players to accelerate that much faster.

Another product that will be featured in tomorrow’s sale is the groundbreaking CCM Resistance helmet. Specially designed to decrease and protect against lateral and torsional impacts, the Resistance helmet is perhaps the most technologically advanced product on the market today. CCM’s terrific RBZ protective line will be available as will the ultra-comfortable CL gloves.

The added incentive to win tickets to Wednesday’s game should draw fans and players alike as the annual prospect showcase is expected to feature a number of elite NHL prospects. Among the players expected to play in this year’s game are Noah Hanifin and Jack Eichel. Both have been projected as top-three prospects in the 2015 Draft with Eichel being mentioned in the same breath as phenom Connor McDavid as a potential first overall pick.

Great Skate will be hosting a Bauer Days event on Saturday, August 16 from 12pm until 4pm. The event will give players a chance to get an up-close and personal look at all of Bauer’s gear for the upcoming season with some great deals on hockey’s most cutting edge equipment.

A 15% off sale on both hockey gear and goalie equipment during the #BauerDays event gives you a chance to restock your bag with the best from Bauer’s trio of equipment lines or the pair of groundbreaking goaltender lines. Whether you’re looking for the impressive anatomic fit of the Supreme TotalOne NXG gloves, the classic look and feel of the Nexus skates or the new-and-improved APX2 protective line, Bauer Days will not only allow you to check out the latest and greatest, but the discount ensures you’ll get your new gear at a great price.

Bauer events have always been a can’t miss for hockey players. The ability to get a peek at some of Bauer’s newest gear while also having the opportunity to test out others is a highlight of the offseason. Then, there’s the swag.

The first 200 players to arrive at the event will receive a free Bauer swag bag and the first 200 parents will receive a free Bauer coffee mug. There are few things cooler than branded merchandise from an equipment manufacturer. Of course, you can’t beat free either.

Be sure to get to Great Skate early on Saturday morning to lock up your swag bag or coffee mug and be the first to experience Bauer’s impressive line of gear.

As part of the Warrior VIP program, I’ve had the opportunity to get a look at the new Covert QR1 stick ahead of its full release. It’s a very cool opportunity and I have to say the stick has surpassed any of the expectations I had for it.

Out of the Box

The QR1’s graphic package hearkens back to Warrior’s earlier days with bright, aggressive colors that are very similar to what adorned the Dolomite in the mid 2000s. It just so happens that particular version of the Dolomite – with the orange and electric blue graphics – stands as the best stick I’ve ever used.

This is a very attractive stick and the feel prior to being cut down is just what you’d expect. It’s feather-light and well balanced. I chose to go with an 85 flex with a Zetterberg curve and my stick has the grip option as well.

On the Ice

My first impression of the stick was the weight and balance and that didn’t change once I cut it down and got it taped up. Thinking back to the last Warrior stick I had (Dynasty AX1), the blade has a more firm feel to it when stickhandling and passing.

The profile of the stick is great as the dagger tip is both visually appealing and effective in practice. Warrior’s goal with the QR1 was to provide a stick with a quick release and they certainly succeeded in doing so.

Through a handful of icetimes, I’ve noticed an appreciable improvement in the crispness and velocity on my passes. I’ve been able to make hard cross-ice passes in the neutral zone and needle threading saucer passes from the corner when on the attack.

Interestingly, my slap shot is also heavier with the QR1, likely due to the well placed kick point on the stick. Since I’ve been playing on the blueline for the duration of my summer season, I haven’t had too many chances to get a feel for the quick release on a wrist shot, but given the feel the stick has when making passes, I can’t imagine I wouldn’t have the same feel when shooting in a game situation.

Keep an eye out for the Covert QR1 to be hitting the shelves soon, you’re not going to want to miss out on this stick.

The Superfast, in addition to inverting many of the graphics from the previous two RBZ sticks (white to red) will utilize new technology to add an even higher C.O.R. to the blade. This is an improvement to the RBZ Stage 2 blade that already featured a much hotter blade than the original RBZ stick.

CCM is referring to the new feature as the SpeedPocket which will be an even wider area when compared to the Speed Channels in the Stage 2 that offers a quicker release. The theory at work here comes over from golf and CCM’s partnership with TaylorMade and the focus on hot, springy club faces on clubs. The original RBZ used hollow areas in the blade that helped to create a trampoline effect on the blade, thus helping players develop a stronger shot.

The evolution saw CCM alter the Speed Channels to take up a bit more space and add a bit more heat to the puck. Now, the Speed Pocket will help to increase the results of you shot even more. It’s my expectation that the Speed Pocket will be one large opening inside the blade compared to the smaller channel designs the defined the Speed and Freak Channels on the RBZ and Stage 2, respectively.

The other, more obvious change is in the graphics package. While the look and colors remain the same, CCM has gone with a primarily red stick that transitions to black at the top of the shaft. This differs from the white blade and shaft of both the RBZ and Stage 2 which really served to define the line and link the product to TaylorMade in terms of design.

The RBZ SuperFast hits shelves in August and will give CCM one of the most sought after products as the 2014-15 season is set to begin.

The new CCM Tacks officially hit the shelves this morning as the return of one of hockey’s most storied equipment lines makes its return.

CCM poured a ton of new technology into the new Tacks line, pulling from some of the success they had with the RBZ while introducing new performance features to make the skate a technological and performance-based marvel.

We talked a bit about the coming release earlier this year while a great deal of the features and technology were still under wraps. Although the skates were seen all over the NHL as they were tested by the likes of Nathan MacKinnon and John Tavares, there was still much to learn about the new skates. Tomorrow everyone will get a chance to experience the new features CCM has included on their newest set of wheels.

One of the most important features that CCM added is the Attack Frame that reinforces the area along the eyelets and the upper heel portion of each boot. The Attack Frame is a carbon fiber reinforcement that stiffens those two specific areas to promote quicker, more explosive starts. This is promoted by CCM’s Pro Core, which has various levels of stiffness throughout the boot to work in unison with the Attack Frame.

The Pro Core is stiffest in the areas where the Attack Frame reinforces while adding stiffness through the middle of the boot in the area between the two stiffest portions. Meanwhile, the Speedbalde 4.0 holder and Hyperglide steel gives the Tacks a similar attack angle as the RBZ’s that promotes cornering and agility.

CCM is also introducing a new Tacks stick to their growing product line. The Tacks stick features an Attack Frame reinforced area designed to reduce torsion during shooting. The new stick also sports the sharp black and gold graphics package of the new skate.

CCM set out to create a skate that provides players with the fastest five steps in hockey. They achieved their goal by finding key areas to add stiffness and promote responsiveness so the most elite skaters would feel the difference in their stride. It’s truly a skate that puts you one stride ahead of your competition.